Wednesday, May 12, 1999 Published at 16:49 GMT 17:49 UKUK PoliticsPeer wins top parliament jobMSPs gather to perform their first task since being sworn inThe first presiding officer of the new Scottish Parliament is the Liberal Democrat peer Sir David Steel.

In a secret ballot, Sir David polled 82 votes. The only other candidate was the Scottish National Party MSP George Reid, who received 44 votes.

He said: "I thank you for this honour and the responsibility which you have given me. I intend to set aside party affiliation and to be the servant of the whole house.

Lord Steel in his new seat

"Last week William McIlvanney (Scottish writer) in a poem, talked about the Scottish lion becoming a kitten again, which must be cherished and we must cherish this parliament."

In a reference to a comment made at the close of the last Scottish Parliament in 1707, he said: "This is the start of a new 'sang' (song)."

Mr Reid paid tribute to the winner, who he said he had known personally for 44 years.

"I'm pleased by this appointment and I'm sure that Sir David will ensure that this house is open, accessible, accountable, strong on equal opportunities and work in partnership with civic Scotland," he told the chamber.